FAQs • Pinal County Superior Court, AZ • CivicEngage

How can Adult Probation help?: Probation services offer an array of benefits to the individual sentenced, the community, and the criminal justice system. By remaining in the community, the individual has access to their support network and employment, which allows them to contribute productively to their community. Probation also attempts to help address the underlying issues of crime, such as alcohol/drug use, mental health concerns, homelessness, and unemployment.

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Adult Probation

1. How soon after a person is arrested is their first court hearing?: A person's first court hearing is typically held within 24 hours after arrest. This hearing is called the initial appearance (IA), and these IA hearings are held 365 days a year. There are two IAs heard daily; 10 am and 3 pm. IA hearings are held at the Pinal County Jail in Florence.

2. What happens at an initial appearance hearing?: The Judge determines the conditions under which a person will be released from custody, attorneys may be appointed (if appropriate), and the next court date will be set.

3. If I'm a victim in a case, will I be contacted before the person is released?: If you are a victim in a case and provided your phone number to the police officer on the scene, you should be contacted by pretrial services before the hearing to allow you to provide input regarding the release decision. You can also attend the Initial Appearance hearing at the jail.

4. What happens if a person under pretrial monitoring does not comply with the conditions of release?: Pretrial Services is responsible for notifying the Court of the person's non-compliance, and the Judge can order that person to be returned to jail.

5. If the Judge orders a Presentence Report, what do I do?: If the Judge orders a presentence report following your change of plea hearing, please report to the Adult Probation Department in the Pinal County Superior Court House. You will provide demographic information, including your contact information for your assigned Presentence Officer. In addition, you will be given an information sheet with directions on when and with whom to schedule your interview.

6. What do I need to bring to my Presentence Interview?: You must bring the following to your interview: birth certificate or passport; driver's license or photo identification; social security number/card; AHCCCS or insurance card; proof of residence (utility bill or phone bill); most recent payroll check stub (if possible). In addition, you may bring: a written statement of your version of the offense and character reference letters, which are letters from friends, employers, or clergy who know about the offense and what type of person you are.

7. What is the Presentence Officer going to ask me during my interview?: Names and social security numbers you've used; parental and family information (including ages and addresses); marital/significant other information; employment information (including supervisors, addresses, and phone numbers); military information; juvenile and adult criminal history (including arrests and probationary/parole periods); education history and goals; substance abuse and mental health concerns; current or future residence location; your personal contact information.

8. Am I allowed to bring my child / children to my presentence interview?: No. Please do not bring children to the presentence interview.

9. What is the difference between probation and parole?: Probation is a court-ordered period of supervision in the community, generally as an alternative to incarceration (prison). Parole is a period of supervised release in the community following a prison term.

10. How can Adult Probation help?: Probation services offer an array of benefits to the individual sentenced, the community, and the criminal justice system. By remaining in the community, the individual has access to their support network and employment, which allows them to contribute productively to their community. Probation also attempts to help address the underlying issues of crime, such as alcohol/drug use, mental health concerns, homelessness, and unemployment.

11. How do I contact my Probation Officer?: During your initial visit, you will meet with a Probation Officer who will provide you with contact information. If you need assistance reaching your probation officer, please get in touch with us, and we will provide you with the proper contact information.

12. What documents will I need to provide to Probation?: We will need copies of your personal identification (such as an ID or Driver's License, birth certificate, passport, or visa); employment verification (pay stub); residence verification (utility bill or lease agreement); medication information; and documents related to any treatment or community restitution that you are involved in.

13. What are probation conditions?: Individuals sentenced to probation are subject to approved uniform conditions of probation and may also be required to adhere to additional conditions related specifically to their conviction offense. Standard conditions commonly include community service, fines, counseling, no drug or alcohol use, no weapons, and restitution.

14. What happens if I violate my conditions of probation?: A probation violation occurs when you fail to abide by your conditions of probation. The type of consequence depends on several factors, such as the seriousness of your violation and whether you have previously violated conditions of probation. To avoid violations, review and understand your conditions of probation. Ask questions when you need clarification. It is important to communicate honestly with your probation officer and notify them if you have law enforcement contact or if there are any changes to your living arrangement or employment status.

15. What is an undesignated felony?: An undesignated felony is considered a felony until the successful completion of probation. If you complete the court requirements and achieve your goals while on probation, the Court may designate the offense as a misdemeanor.

16. How do I get my civil rights restored?: A conviction for a felony suspends many civil rights. After completion of probation, you can file with the court to have those rights restored. A packet with the instructions and forms are available through the Pinal County Clerk of the Superior Court.

17. What is probation?: Probation Supervision is a sentencing option for the Court instead of or in addition to jail or prison. The Court determines the conditions of the probation term, and Adult Probation ensures individuals have the necessary resources to comply with the conditions.